Today’s Manager

After training managers in the military for many years, I have met very few managers that are on par. I consider myself very fortunate to work for one such manager that exceeds the standard. However, that is not always the case.

There are six different kinds of management styles:

Coercive

Authoritarian

Affiliator

Democratic

Pacesetter

Coach

The best leader uses a combination of all six styles. I however, use a coaching style and have used that style for years. Many managers that I know however, tend to use the Coercive/Authoritarian style of management.

I personally do not agree with the Coercive or Authoritarian style of management. The results that it often produces are not compatible in building a team, and only develop a combative, hostile work environment — one that rewards backstabbing and dishonesty, and only feeds the fan of disloyalty.

The best managers are like the manager I work for. He tempers his judgement, is willing to communicate, and expects results. His style fosters and promotes teamwork, collaboration, and harmony in a company. His dress, as well as his mannerisms display a high focus of character, as well as empathy for his suboordinates. This style is very much a coaching style. This style is indicative of military heroes and mentors — I knew these leaders as people I was willing to lay down my life for, in pursuit of those goals that were set before me.

Unfortunately, that is not always the case in many offices. For more information on management and leadership styles, follow this link.

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